Quick Facts
E 19°11'14''
Budget Getaways Review
Set on the working farm Kleinfontein, along the lower slopes of the Winterhoek Valley, this little stone cottage offers a package of rustic simple living and 360-degree mountain vistas.
About 10km from Tulbagh this 30ha farm also offers plenty in the way of outdoor action, both on the farm and in and around the town and its surrounding valleys.
Stepping inside Kliphuis, you wont find a jacuzzi and Travertine counters - what you're got here for is simple country living and the essentials required for a comfy Budget Getaway.
The cottage sleeps six (four will have a more comfortable time of it) across a spread two upstairs bedrooms (double and twin) and a basic double room downstairs. There’s a shared bathroom upstairs - with towels supplied.
The living room is spacious and features a large stone fireplace for winter. The open-plan kitchen is kitted with microwave, small stove and fridge-freezer. There is no TV.
Heading out from the living room, you step onto a large balcony with outside braai. This chilled out spot and its views over the dam, mountains and fynbos could well be the downfall of those lofty plans for an active weekend.
This said, there's no shorty supply of activity. Take on a three hour hike up Inkruip Peak, to an outlook over the Cape like you’ve never seen; head out for a bike or horse ride; pop into Tulbagh for coffee or lunch.
Failing all the above, light another Blitz stick and suck up that clean mountain air.
It’s hardly surprising the guestbook reads like it does, “Absolutely marvelous location,” says one guest. “Rustic cottage with all the amenities that one needs for a relaxed and comfortable stay,” crows another.
If you're happy with basic comforts, topped off with a creamy layer of five-star scenery, then best get packing.
Additional Info
- No swimming, fishing or canoeing in the dam
- No TV or WiFi available
- The owner can recommend a few nearby hiking trails
"We were looking for an isolated break away in a peaceful setting, which this place definitely delivered. I would definitely recommend it to travellers seeking to break away from technology and civilisation."
(visited Feb 2022)
"Ek het bietjie meer verwag vir dit wat ons betaal het. Die plekkie was nie 100% skoon nie. Alles binne is oud en afgeleef. Die gordyne voel of dit op jou kop gaan val as jy dit oop en toe trek. Daar was tot gordyne wat se some uitgehang het en dit kon mens sigbaar sien. Die stort se water het onder die deur uitgeloop tot in die kombuis. Ek kan 'n plaas met 'n slang in 'n huis en spinnekop en vliee en muskiete hanteer... maar die ander goed is nie heeltemal aanvaarbaar nie. Die uitsig is asemrowend en die stilte fantasties. Die episode met die hondjies is vinnig uitgesorteer en daaroor is ek dankbaar. Ek dink julle kan die plekkie regtig bietjie meer aandag en liefde gee."
(visited Mar 2021)
"As jul fantastiese valei experience met absolute privaatheid geniet is DIT DIE PLEK!"
(visited Aug 2019)
"We had a great stay at the Kliphuis. It was fully equipped with all the basics and was neat, clean and comfortable. It is set in the most beautiful valley with stunning views."
(visited Dec 2018)
"Excellent appeal and setting great views all which one expects to break away from suburbia."
(visited Dec 2018)
"I can not put into words the beauty of this place. The view of the surroundings is simply breathtaking. We (2 adults and a cocker spaniel) were lucky enough to have fantastic weather, so we were drenched in sunshine on the balcony, and spent most of our time here just staring at the mountains surrounding us. The cottage is simple and rustic, but it had your basic needs to prepare your food and make your coffee in the morning, which is really all you need. The linens were clean and the bed we slept on was comfortable. But most evenings we fell asleep in front of the fire on the sleeper couch in the lounge. We unfortunately had one windy night and couldn't use the inside fireplace due to it smoking into the house. Maybe there is something that can be done about this? We went during the week, and the farm was not busy at all during our stay, a few friendly farm workers walking past during the day, and a few vehicles driving past the cottage. I would suggest enquiring about the activity of the farm before you book to stay during the week, as I think it can get quite busy at some periods of the year. We took a walk past the farm up the mountain, and could view the whole valley and mountain range, unbelievable beauty surrounded us. There were loads of dams for our pooch to swim in and cool off. We also had to adopt the farmers dog at some stages, since he was around most of the time. This didn't bother us at all since he was very sweet and played really nicely with our pooch. But it might be an issue if you are not dog people. We also felt quite safe, since the main farm house is only about 200m away, and we had another neighbour also about 200m away. This place exceeded our expectations. We don't look for 5 star hotel accommodation when we go on our budget getaways. We look for simplicity, peace, quiet, tranquillity, and beauty. And Kliphuis, to us, was all of that. Thank you for a lovely stay."
(visited Jul 2018)
"The humans in our party had a good time while the dog (a beagle) in our party had a fantastic time. Resident dogs and cats nearby who do drop in for visits but they are friendly so no problems. And my doggo got to run around unleashed."
(visited Jul 2018)
"Great setting on a farm with a stunning view of the mountains (even more spectacular with snow on them)."
(visited Jul 2018)
"A spectacular setting with magnificent views makes for a fabulous location and a good accommodation spot a shortish distance from town (10km) BUT NOT if you are seeking rest, a late lie in and a tranquil, private retreat. It is a very busy working farm and this point is not sufficiently emphasised on the site description. The photos on site are also a little misleading in that they do not clearly depict the road which leads to the main farmhouse and work buildings directly in front of the accommodation. Very loud hammering on metal at 7am in the morning and noisy farm vehicles, such as tractors, quad bikes and bakkies starting up in the early morning hours (from 6h30 onwards) and which only quieten down at 6pm or thereabouts in the evening before stating up again the next morning (during my mid-week visit.) Thus a constant parade of the aforementioned vehicles carrying farm workers and going about their business made it nigh impossible to enjoy the lovely large terrace and surrounding mountain views during the day. Apart from the above, an adequately equipped cottage with well laundered bed linen made for an enjoyable stay. There were, however, many leaks throughout the house, such as directly over the lounge sofa creating a damp couch and in many other places quite large volumes of water leaking through onto window sills and floors which were all brought to the attention of administrators, Cape Dutch Quarters, on departure with photographic evidence presented showing the leaks."
(visited Jun 2018)
"The cottage is in a lovely setting. Bit overpriced for just two people, I do understand the reason for minimum charge, but the amenities were not that great. The shower trickled, and a bit disappointed with the general condition of the house. Our dogs were allowed to come with,but we had to keep them locked inside as the Jack russels from next door are used to coming and going as they please, so did not get to relax too much. Jan tried to accommodate us by keeping the dogs away, but it is difficult."
(visited May 2018)
"This place is absolutely amazing. Breathtaking sunsets and beautiful surroundings. We couldn't have asked for a better way to spend New Years. We went for hikes around the area, the neighbors were friendly and their dogs too. We were so sad to leave but we'll definitely be back soon."
(visited Dec 2017)
"We had a pleasant stay - wish we had a few more days. The setting was great."
(visited Sep 2017)
"Awesome setting for a rustic cottage. We spent most of the weekend on the verandah gazing at the view and watching the stunning sunsets. Thank you for sharing your piece of paradise."
(visited Nov 2016)
"Beautiful views... a weekend break away on a farm with lots of dogs. We woke to the sound of a thousand birds. Down to earth living, with the basics; budget wise indeed."
(visited Sep 2016)
"We had an amazing time in Tulbagh. We were greeted with lots of friendliness at the Cape Dutch Quarters. The little stone house is absolutely beautiful. The best getaway I have had in a long time. Everything was very clean. The neighbors were friendly and so were their pets. I brought my doggie along, so this was a big bonus. The scenery is gorgeous - very tranquil. I will definitely be visiting again soon. Thank you for the great experience."
(visited Sep 2016)
"Such a beautiful setting and a house that has all you need. The shower was pretty grossly dirty though."
(visited Jul 2016)
Getaway Reply
Hi Nicky. Thank you for the review on the Kliphuis on Kleinfontein. We will most definitely attend to the cleaning of the shower. We hope your next visit is perfect. Kind regards, Karien.
(Karien Benson)
"We loved staying at Kliphuis. The sweeping views are never ending and the orchards and vineyards were very pleasing on the eye. I took way too many photos of the same thing but at different times of day. We went for many great walks and discovered a derelict shack on a dam, the remains of a burnt down house with its own mountain pool, played games, read books, looked at the view, braaied on the balcony, looked at the view, went zip-lining in Ceres, rode horses through orchards, looked at the view, slept well and felt safe, relaxed and very content."
(visited Mar 2016)
"We thoroughly enjoyed our stay!"
(visited February 2015)
"A lovely three days spent at Kliphuis with my family and of course the three family pooches. We all had a thoroughly enjoyable time. Stunning views especially on the walks. A map would have been useful to indicate the many possible trails The veranda was a beautiful place to sit especially in the cooler part of the day. This was also where you could receive cell phone reception. The dogs could run up and down the outside staircase for a quick dip in the dam. All amenities clean and in working order. Will hopefully be back."
(visited January 2015)
"A great place in exquisite surroundings, although the hostess was a little irritable."
(visited December 2014)
"We had a fantastic time at the Kliphuis. It was and cool inside while temperatures were in the high 30's outside. The views are breathtaking and the sunsets magnificent! All the appliances were working fine, the place was clean and we felt safe and at home. I plan to go back there soon."
(visited November 2014)
"Thank you so much for the use of the wonderful Kliphuis, we had a fantastic time. Absolutely stunning location and very comfortable!"
(visited November 2014)
"Just wanted to thank you for hosting us this weekend! We all had a super time and Phoebe was completely in love with your two doggies. She had the time of her life. Thanks for sharing your peace of heaven on earth with us, you truly have one of the most beautiful farms we have ever stayed at."
(visited September 2014)
"Stone Cottage is very rustic as advertised but absolutely fabulous. This was our second time there. We went in summer last year and was beautiful and hot with beautiful surroundings. This time winter and was lovely. I would gladly and have recommended the cottage as it is really value for money and tranquil. Lovely time both times and will go back."
(visited August 2014)
"Beautiful setting! I know it was specified that it is rustic but the kettle had weird gunk in it, the two-plate stove had to be unplugged to be switched off. The fridge did not keep our food cold and the freezer did not work so some of our meat went off. There was a big water stain on the bedroom curtain."
(visited June 2014)
Getaway Reply
"Meghan, I'm sorry for your experience in the Kliphuis! The 'gunk' in the kettle is thanks to our water (actually very healthy water!). Unfortunately the oven has no switch (not my fault!) but the plug to put it off is just behind it. The very nice KIC fridge (quite new) just had to be plugged in! Plug also just behind the fridge. Thanks in any case for the feedback. We've attended to all the problems!"
(Rosette Jordaan)
"Wow what a great place. If you like basic amenities lending to more rustic then this is it. The farm and surrounding area is magnificent and is close to Tulbagh and wine farms for day trips and outings. There are many options for hiking and mountain biking. We really enjoyed the peace and openness of the cottage and will be back!"
(visited April 2014)
Getaway Reply
"Hi Kath, thanks for your for your lovely comments on our Kliphuisie, I really appreciate it! Hope to see you here soon again.
Kind regards,
Rosette"
(Rosette Jordaan)
"We were disappointed when we got there. The pictures are completely misleading. The house is just off the farm road where the tractors growl right past the window all day long (we were there on a weekday - including the early morning farm waking). The owners house is about 500m to the side of the Kliphuis and the packing house or tractor garage is opposite in clear view. The lake that looks so rustic is lovely but tucked in between all of this (I'm not sure how they got the photo to look so isolated and serene.) If you want to swim - there is no clear way into the water - you will be doing it in front of all the neighbours and farm workers. Same for having a braai on the porch. In full view of everyone else. The house is actually quite small, the one 'bedroom' has no door to close it off for privacy. It's downstairs with the front door leading into it and the stairs leading to it. Lastly, the lady who did the booking for us made us feel like an inconvenience because we were only 2 people rather than more. On the HUGE plus side, the mountain area is stunning and we walked high up into the farm which was just exquisite. I won't be back."
(visited February 2014)
"The Kliphuis was so comfortable, spacious and it had the most amazing view. We loved being there so much we're definitely returning soon!"
(visited February 2014)
"I have been visiting the Kliphuis every year since 2007 and even stayed there for a week in 2013. Rating a house with character and charm is difficult as one person might love the rustic charm and splendid views, while another might see value for money measured in the size of the LCD screen. Die Kliphuis is situated in possibly the best spot in Tulbagh with dusk and dawn being a showcase of orchard covered hills and mountains. Winter is particularly spectacular with the snow covered mountains." It is a house to relax in, to have a braai with friends and to read a book while time goes by. In the past there was some waterproofing issues with the ground floor room, but in the past year (and it tends to rain when I am there) it seems like that problem is something of the past :) All in all - great value for money.
(visited February 2014)
"Rustic cottage with all the amenities that one needs for a relaxed and comfortable stay. The views over the valley and the beautiful mountains are unbeatable!"
(visited August 2012)
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Where You'll Also Find Us
Arniston (Waenhuiskrans) • Barrydale • Beaufort West • Betty's Bay • Bonnievale • Bot River • Bredasdorp • Caledon • Calitzdorp • Cape Agulhas and Struisbaai • Cape Town area • Ceres • Citrusdal • Clanwilliam & Cederberg • Darling • De Rust • Franschhoek • Gansbaai • George • Grabouw & Elgin Valley • Greyton • Heidelberg • Hermanus • Knysna • Ladismith • Laingsburg • Lamberts Bay • Langebaan • Malgas • Matjiesfontein • McGregor • Montagu • Mossel Bay • Napier • Oudtshoorn • Paarl • Paternoster • Plettenberg Bay • Porterville • Prince Albert • Pringle Bay • Pringle Bay, Betty's Bay and Kleinmond • Riebeek West and Riebeek-Kasteel • Riversdale • Riviersonderend • Robertson • St Helena Bay • Stanford • Stilbaai • Strand, Gordon's Bay and Somerset West • Swellendam • Tulbagh • Uniondale • Velddrif • Vermaaklikheid • Wellington • Wilderness • Witsand • Worcester & Hex Valley • Yzerfontein • Baviaanskloof • Cape St Francis • Cape St Francis & St Francis Bay • East London • Graaff-Reinet • Hogsback • Jeffreys Bay • Makhanda (Grahamstown) • Middelburg • Nieu-Bethesda • Rhodes • Sutherland